More than 1 billion people in the world do not have access to electricity, and countries with sufficient electricity supply face the dual challenge of a rapidly growing energy demand and concerns for the environment. Nuclear power is a reliable, low-carbon energy source many countries are now considering or adopting as part of their energy mix, and as part of their efforts to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 on ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.
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Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
The IAEA helps countries to meet the growing energy demand for development, while improving energy security, reducing environmental and health impacts and mitigating climate change.
How to provide energy for all
When charting out their energy strategies, experts can use the IAEA’s energy planning and modelling tools and assistance to help them plan their country’s energy future — which may or may not include nuclear power. These tools help countries consider all aspects of energy supply and demand while adhering to sustainable development goals. The tools are already used by over 135 countries and 20 international organizations.
For countries considering or setting up a nuclear power programme, the IAEA, upon request, provides guidance and support on establishing and maintaining a nuclear power programme in line with internationally recognized safety standards and security guidelines. The IAEA also assists countries new to nuclear technology in developing the proper infrastructure to help them build their way to sustainable energy. The IAEA provides technical support in all aspects of the nuclear fuel cycle and the life cycle of nuclear facilities, as well as support related to emerging innovative technologies.
The Agency also promotes international collaboration and facilitates the exchange of scientific and technical information toward advancing energy research and technology, including in nuclear fusion.
